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The Life and Legacy of Muhammad Garba: A Story of Commitment, Leadership, and Excellence

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Malam Muhammad Garba

The Life and Legacy of Muhammad Garba: A Story of Commitment, Leadership, and Excellence

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano

Muhammad Garba’s rise from a young man in Kano to a reputable figure in public service, media, and union leadership is evidence of his commitment, foresight, and ceaseless work to improve Nigeria. A number of noteworthy accomplishments throughout his more than three-decade career demonstrate his development, tenacity, and unshakable dedication to the media industry, public service, and the people he represented.

*Early Beginnings in Journalism*

Born and raised in Kano State, Muhammad Garba was exposed to the rich cultural diversity and vibrant political atmosphere of northern Nigeria. His early years in Kano shaped his outlook and provided the foundation for his future endeavors.

Garba started working as a journalist in 1989 for Triumph Publishing Company Limited, one of the Kano’s most well-known media outlets. As a journalist, Garba soon came to see how the media could affect national debate and public sentiment. His ascent in the media sector was driven by his love of impactful, accurate reporting as well as his natural grasp of the function of journalism in society.

Notable were Garba’s strong work ethic, ability to meet deadlines, and astute editorial judgment. From reporter to sub-editor, chief sub-editor, group news editor, and finally deputy editor, he rose through the ranks quickly.

He developed his leadership skills in each of these positions while gaining the knowledge and expertise necessary to handle the intricacies of newsrooms. Garba played a crucial role in determining Triumph Publishing’s editorial direction as he rose through the ranks, helping to preserve the publication’s standing as a high-caliber news outlet.

*Union Leadership: A Champion for Journalists*

In addition to his achievements as an editor, Garba’s strong participation in unionism showed his leadership potential. He thought it was important to safeguard the rights and well-being of journalists, particularly in a setting where press freedom was frequently threatened. After being elected as Chapel-The Triumph’s chairman, Garba started his union involvement by assiduously defending the rights of the organization’s journalists.

Soon after, Garba’s leadership abilities and influence helped him rise to a higher position as president of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). His career took a significant turn at this point. In this esteemed position, Garba promoted press freedom, improved working conditions, and moral principles for journalists throughout Nigeria.

Significant progress was made in press organization during his time as NUJ president, guaranteeing that journalists’ rights were upheld and their voices heard. Under his direction, the union consolidated its standing as a powerful force in Nigerian media, capable of interacting with employers, government officials, and civil society organizations to defend journalists’ rights.

*Transition to Public Service*

Given his extensive background in media, leadership, and public affairs, Garba’s move from journalism to public service was a logical one. He was in high demand for government jobs due to his reputation as an excellent communicator and his in-depth knowledge of the political environment.

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He first served as the press secretary to both the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Governor of Kano State. In these roles, Garba was responsible for managing the flow of information between political offices and the public. His work as press secretary required him to be tactful, efficient, and strategic, ensuring that the political leaders he represented had a strong, clear message that resonated with the public and stakeholders.

Garba was appointed as the Commissioner for Information in the Kano State Government under former Governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR because of his expertise in media management and public relations.

As Commissioner for Information, Garba was tasked with managing government communications, including handling media relations, overseeing the dissemination of government policies, and ensuring transparency in governance. His ability to navigate the complexities of state media and his flair for crafting compelling narratives helped elevate the public image of the Kano State Government.

*Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the All-Progressive Congress (APC)*

Garba’s career achieved a new height when he was named Chief of Staff to Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR, the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress (APC). In this capacity, Garba rose to prominence inside the ruling political party’s organizational apparatus. Managing the party’s operations, supervising communication tactics within the APC, and organizing important assignments for the National Chairman were among his responsibilities.

Garba was recognized for his extraordinary organizational and strategic skills when he was appointed Chief of Staff. He was given important assignments requiring a thorough comprehension of Nigerian politics, the objectives of the APC, and the effective execution of those goals.His behind-the-scenes efforts, which made sure the APC’s message reached its supporters efficiently, were crucial to the party’s operations and electoral campaigns.

Being Dr. Ganduje’s close advisor, Garba was essential in shaping the party’s policies and tactics, especially those concerning election and governance. In both local and national politics, the APC’s success was greatly aided by his capacity to organize extensive political operations.

*A Legacy of Service and Leadership*

Throughout his career, Muhammad Garba has exemplified the qualities of a servant leader: dedication, humility, and a tireless commitment to the people he served. Whether as a journalist, a union leader, or a public servant, Garba’s primary focus has always been on serving the public good. His influence in Nigerian journalism, unionism, and politics has left a lasting impact, one that will be felt for generations to come.

Garba has made a significant impact on the media landscape. More press freedom and a more professional media environment have been made possible by his efforts to improve the working circumstances of media practitioners and to fortify the Nigerian journalistic union. He demonstrated his capacity to serve the public with honesty and openness during his tenure as a public servant, making sure that the programs and policies actually benefited the populace.

As a political leader, Garba’s work with the APC influenced the party’s communication approach, which helped it remain effective and relevant in Nigeria’s rapidly changing political environment. His attempts to make sure the party ran smoothly contributed to its standing as one of Nigeria’s most powerful political organizations.

Muhammad Garba’s rise from the press to the top levels of public service is a compelling illustration of what is possible with diligence, tenacity, and a strong sense of purpose. He will always be regarded as a person whose contributions influenced the political, media, and public service environments of Nigeria. His career is a testament to the virtues of integrity, leadership, and determination.

In conclusion, everyone who wants to change their community can find inspiration in Muhammad Garba’s incredible journey. His accomplishments serve as evidence of the strength of dedication, development, and societal contribution. Future generations of Nigerian and international journalists, leaders, and public servants will surely continue to draw inspiration from Garba’s legacy.

Written by a digital journalist Umar Idris Shuaibu, from Kano.

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Nigeria Secures $20bn Shell Investment 

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Chief Executive Officer of Shell Plc, Mr Wael Sawan, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership for creating a healthy climate for investments to thrive and restoring investor confidence.

At a meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja recently, Sawan said Shell is deepening and expanding its investments in Nigeria, and the company is ready, alongside its partners, to invest an additional $20bn primarily because of the robust and bold leadership of the President.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Sawan emphasised that Nigeria, under the Tinubu administration, is one of the countries attracting significant investment from global oil companies.

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Highlighting Shell’s recent investments, such as the $5bn in Bonga North, $2bn in HI, and the gas project to NLNG, Sawan stated that the corporation is committed to long-term investments in the country, underscoring the stable economic environment.

“We have really been in a space where we are very keen to invest in Nigeria. But I would say this has not always been the case.

Your leadership and your vision have created an investment climate over the last few years that, I will be very honest with you, propelled us to invest, in particular, also as we compare to other investments around the world,” he said.

The Shell CEO maintained that “stability in today’s environment will honestly have a premium for corporates because we are investing not for one administration or five or 10 years; we want to invest for 20, 30, or 40 years, and in the case of Nigeria, for many, many decades.”

Speaking on the expansion of Shell’s investments in Nigeria, Sawan maintained that the corporation has also deepened its interest in OML 118, the Bonga Block.

“TotalEnergies was selling, so we bought it because we want to deepen it further. But that, we think, is not enough. We think there is more to invest here, and we understand the vision that you have for the country.

“And so we are indeed working on a project, Bonga Southwest, that could, if we reach an FID stage, see us, with our partners, invest around $20bn in foreign direct investment, half of which will be capital. The other half will be the operating expenses and the like that will come into the country. This will be one of the biggest energy projects in the world,” he explained.

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NLC Deputy President Attends Coronation Ceremony in Daura

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By: Ahmad Muhammad Sani Gwarzo, Anipr.

The National President of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), who also serves as the National Chairman of the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Dr. Kabir Ado Sani, mni, Magayakin Minjibir, attended a grand traditional coronation ceremony held in the Daura Emirate, Katsina State.

Comrade Dr. Kabir Ado Sani, who is also the Representative of the Sarkin Bai of Funakaye, attended the occasion to honour and celebrate his deputy from the North-West Zone.

During the colourful ceremony, Comrade Hussaini Hamisu Yanduna was officially turbaned as the Sarkin Gabas of Daura, an important traditional title within the historic Daura Emirate.

The event was conducted with dignity and deep respect for cultural heritage, attracting a large gathering of distinguished guests from across the country.

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Traditional rulers, labour leaders, government officials, and members of the host community were all in attendance, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

The presence of the MHWUN and JOHESU President, as well as the Deputy President of the NLC, added special prestige and national relevance to the ceremony.

Speakers at the event emphasized the importance of combining traditional leadership with public and labour service for sustainable community development.

Comrade Hussaini Hamisu Yanduna was described as a man of integrity, dedication, and selfless service—qualities that have distinguished his career within the labour movement.

These outstanding attributes were cited as key reasons for his selection and elevation to the traditional title.

The Daura Emirate Council noted that his turbaning was based on his proven character, leadership record, and meaningful contributions to society.

Comrade Dr. Kabir Ado Sani congratulated the newly turbaned Sarkin Gabas, expressing pride and satisfaction over the honour bestowed upon his deputy.

He stated that the traditional title would further enhance the Sarkin Gabas’ capacity to unite people and promote harmony and development.

Special prayers were offered for divine guidance and blessings upon the new titleholder.

The congregation prayed for Allah Almighty to grant him wisdom, fairness, and strength to discharge his responsibilities with justice and fear of God.

Residents of Daura expressed joy over the appointment and pledged their full support to the Sarkin Gabas in serving the community.

Participants at the ceremony observed that such traditional recognitions play a vital role in strengthening peace, unity, and social cohesion.

The Daura Emirate was widely commended for the orderly and culturally rich manner in which the coronation ceremony was organized.

In conclusion, heartfelt prayers and goodwill messages were extended to the Sarkin Gabas of Daura, with hopes that his reign would serve as a pillar for progress, peace, and the overall development of society.

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Kano State Strengthens Urban Mobility with Road Safety Awareness: Teaching Children the Language of Traffic Lights

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Parents and guardians continue to shoulder a major responsibility in ensuring that children are properly guided in their daily movement to and from school.

By Ahmad Muhammad Sani Gwarzo, ANIPR

Beyond providing educational materials and supervision, teaching road safety remains a critical part of nurturing responsible and safe young citizens.

Every day, children interact with busy roads, whether on foot or while being conveyed to school. This reality makes it necessary for parents, guardians, and teachers to consistently enlighten them on how to behave when approaching roads and intersections.

One of the most effective tools for road safety education is a clear understanding of traffic light signals. These signals are universal guides designed to protect both pedestrians and motorists, and their meanings must be clearly understood by all road users.

Teachers play an important role in reinforcing this knowledge within the school environment. By explaining traffic signs and signals in classrooms, children gain theoretical understanding that complements real-life experience.

Parents and guardians, on the other hand, translate these lessons into practice. By guiding children during road crossings and explaining traffic lights in real situations, safety lessons become practical and memorable.

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In support of these collective efforts, the people’s Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf FNISE, has embarked on the construction of additional traffic lights and the renovation of existing ones across major city roads and urban areas.

This intervention has significantly improved traffic regulation and enhanced safety for pedestrians, especially schoolchildren who rely on properly functioning traffic systems for safe movement.

As part of public enlightenment, it is important to clearly understand the laws guiding traffic light signals:

– Red light: A firm instruction to stop. All vehicles and pedestrians must halt and wait patiently.
– Yellow light: A warning signal. Road users should be alert, preparing either to stop or to move depending on their position.
– Green light: Permission to go ahead. For pedestrians, it signals that it is safe to cross; for vehicles, it allows orderly movement forward.

Understanding and obeying these signals reduces accidents, promotes orderliness, and builds discipline among road users. It also ensures that children develop safe habits from an early age.

With the rehabilitation and installation of traffic lights, Kano State’s urban roads are becoming more organized, reducing confusion and improving communication between drivers and pedestrians. Parents can now feel more assured as they send their children to school, knowing that visible and functional traffic lights support safer crossings and controlled traffic flow.

The Governor’s commitment to such meaningful projects reflects an administration that listens to the everyday concerns of the people and responds with practical solutions. Road safety infrastructure goes beyond physical construction; it represents a long-term investment in human life, public order, and sustainable urban development.

By combining parental guidance, educational instruction, and government intervention, a strong culture of road safety is being built across Kano State. Through these deliberate efforts, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf FNISE continues to demonstrate people-oriented leadership, ensuring that Kano State remains a safer place where development and public enlightenment move hand in hand.

 

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